Israel has accepted a U.S. plan to extend the Gaza ceasefire during Ramadan and Passover. The agreement includes releasing half of the captives in Gaza. Hamas’s response is still pending, amidst concerns that fighting could resume if negotiations falter. Further discussions are anticipated to conclude the terms of the second phase of the deal.
The Israeli government has agreed to a U.S. proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, which was articulated by President Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. Under this plan, the ceasefire will remain in effect during the month of Ramadan in March and extend through Jewish Passover, concluding on April 20. The proposal also includes the conditional release of half the captives held in Gaza, with their release scheduled for the first day of the ceasefire extension.
At present, there are 59 captives reported to be in Gaza, with Israeli forces confirming that half of these individuals are alive and the other half deceased. Despite the progress with the U.S. proposal, uncertainty persists as to Hamas’s response and whether they will agree to the conditions set forth. Hamas has maintained its commitment to the ceasefire and has indicated readiness for a large prisoner exchange to facilitate an end to the conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office expressed that the agreement to extend the ceasefire reflects Israel’s willingness to negotiate. However, Israeli forces are positioned to resume fighting at any moment if circumstances require. On the other hand, American officials assert that further time is necessary to finalize negotiations for phase two of the peace agreement, which would dictate the conditions under which the remaining captives would be released.
As discussions continue, there has yet to be an official comment from Hamas regarding the Israeli Prime Minister’s statements or the U.S. proposal. At this time, developments are ongoing, with the situation evolving rapidly, and further updates anticipated either later in the morning or throughout the day.
Live coverage of the conflict and subsequent updates can be followed on specific news platforms, including recent developments from March 1.
In summary, Israel has agreed to a U.S.-proposed extension of the Gaza ceasefire, which will last throughout March and into mid-April. The plan includes the release of half of the captives in Gaza, but it remains dependent on Hamas’s acceptance. Uncertainties loom as to the next steps, and negotiations are ongoing to minimize conflict during significant religious observances. Continued updates will provide clarity on this evolving situation.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
